Today we celebrate the feast day of Saint John of Capistrano, a powerful figure in the history of the Catholic faith and a model of courage, perseverance, and dedication to Christ’s mission. His legacy is intertwined with both spiritual strength and the mysterious beauty of nature, particularly the annual departure of the swallows from the Mission of San Juan Capistrano in California, which occurs on this very day. Let us reflect on his life and these natural wonders in the light of our faith.
Born in 1386 in Italy, Saint John of Capistrano originally pursued a career in law and became a respected governor of Perugia. After experiencing a profound conversion while imprisoned during a war, he felt called to renounce his worldly ambitions and dedicate his life to God. He entered the Franciscan Order and became one of its most zealous members, known for his deep asceticism and fervor for reforming both the Church and society.
Saint John was a man of action, defending the faith against heresies, particularly the Hussites, and serving as a missionary preacher across Europe. His powerful sermons drew immense crowds, and his influence extended from the pulpit to the battlefield. In 1456, he led a crusade against the Ottoman Turks at the Siege of Belgrade, inspiring the defenders with his faith and courage. Through his leadership and unshakable trust in God, the Christian forces achieved a miraculous victory, halting the Turkish advance into Europe.
Throughout his life, Saint John of Capistrano exemplified what it means to be a faithful servant of Christ, using his gifts not for personal glory, but for the defense of the Church and the salvation of souls. His feast day calls us to be equally courageous in defending the faith and spreading the Gospel, no matter the obstacles we face.
On this same day, another tradition unfolds at the Mission of San Juan Capistrano in California—the departure of the swallows. These small, unassuming birds have become a symbol of hope and the natural cycles of life. Each year, the swallows migrate from the mission on October 23rd, marking the end of a season. This annual departure occurs in sync with Saint John’s feast day, and though it may seem like mere coincidence, it speaks to the harmony between the divine and the natural world.
The swallows’ migration symbolizes renewal and the rhythms of creation that God has established. Just as the swallows return to the mission every spring, we are reminded that God’s providence guides all things, and like these birds, we too are called to return to our spiritual home—our relationship with Christ. As the swallows take flight, they remind us that the changes and seasons of our lives are not random but are directed by the hand of God, who watches over His creation.
As Knights of Columbus, we are called to defend our faith with the same zeal as Saint John of Capistrano. We must never shy away from standing up for the truth of the Gospel, even in the face of great opposition. We can also learn from the swallows of San Juan Capistrano—who year after year, without fail, return to their home. Let us imitate their faithfulness by returning daily to Christ in prayer, service, and brotherhood.
On this feast day, let us honor the legacy of Saint John by renewing our commitment to the mission of the Church. Like the swallows who leave only to return, we can depart from our comfort zones and return to the Lord’s call with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
Posted with permission of the original author:
SK Christopher M. Hess
Deputy Grand Knight, Faith Director – Father Jacob Post Council #14464
Faithful Scribe – Cathedral Assembly #3298